Whether you are staying at home by choice or by a Covid19 decree, or you are living in a climate that is just not ready for seeds to go in the ground, growing food (sprouts) in a jar is easy, quick and delicious.
I started my food in a jar journey because I am fostering a cute little bunny and I was looking for healthy choices to feed her. Growing them at home saves you money, time at the grocery store and you know they are safe.
First things first, in order to grow sprouts, you need seeds. You can pick up or order Sprouting Seeds from your local seed company or from Amazon like I did. Technically, you can grow sprouts from most types of seeds, but it is best to purchase sprouting seeds as they have been chosen as a type that is edible and have been cleaned properly.
To get started you will need a large jar, a screen to place over the jar or a fine mesh colander or even cheese cloth (with an elastic to keep the cloth on), seeds and water. That’s it! I used one of my Sugar Taco jars, a colander and several different types of sprouting seeds – clover, alfalfa and Mung Bean. You can also order sprouting jars from seeds companies or Amazon which come with a draining screen – this does make your job easier, but I like to use what I have 😊
To start, place about 2 tablespoons of seeds into your large jar and add enough water until the level is about 2 inches above the seeds. This wakes up your dormant seeds. Cover with a lid and leave on your counter for 24 hours. It is ok for your jar to be in light, but you shouldn’t place it in a sunny area.
Next, after your 24 hours is up drain the water either by pouring into your colander or using the draining screen that you have made or that came with your sprouting jar. Rinse your seeds twice making sure all the water is removed from the seeds. Your jar needs to be covered but it needs air flow so using a screen or cheese cloth works great here. Some people like to leave their jars inverted for a short time to allow excess water to drain.
Repeat your rinsing 2-3 times per day and in about 3-5 your sprouts will be ready! To get rid of the hulls (leftover parts of the seeds), place your sprouts in a large bowl and immerse in water. Push the sprouts down with your hand and the hulls will rise to the top – just pour off the water and repeat again if you need to.
To store your sprouts, drain them well, place them in a container with a lid and place a paper towel in the bottom. They should last for about a week. Enjoy!!
